Les Saignantes
One of Africa's first science-fiction films: a political satire set in 2025
- Directed by :
- Jean-Pierre Bekolo
- Genre :
- Fiction (science fiction, thriller, horror)
- Running time :
- 1 h 32
- Languages :
- French
The story
In 2025, in an unnamed African country, Majolie and Chouchou move among the powerful. When a senior official dies during sex, the two young women must get rid of the body. They then set out to rid the country of its corrupt leaders.
Why it matters
It is regarded as one of the first African science-fiction films. Under the guise of a genre film, it satirises corruption in Cameroon, punctuated by intertitles that challenge the viewer. It won the Silver Stallion at FESPACO 2007.
Filming
Shot in 2005; a France–Cameroon co-production.
Awards and selections
- Silver Stallion of Yennenga, FESPACO 2007
- Best Actress award, FESPACO 2007
- Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, 2005
- Holden Award for Best Script, special mention, Torino Film Festival, 2005
Cast
- Adèle Ado — Majolie
- Dorylia Calmel — Chouchou
- Emil Abossolo-Mbo — the Minister of State
- Joséphine Ndagnou — in a supporting role
What sources disagree on
Sources disagree on the FESPACO 2007 acting award: French Wikipedia gives it to Adèle Ado and Dorylia Calmel, English Wikipedia to Adèle Ado alone. The running time ranges from 92 to 97 minutes depending on the source.